Keto Means
Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich Pexels Logo Photo: Nataliya Vaitkevich

How do I know if my blood sugar is in ketosis?

A doctor can use blood or urine tests to determine whether a person is in ketosis or ketoacidosis. These tests measure the levels of ketones, glucose, and acidity in the body. Nutritional ketosis is not a medical condition and does not require a diagnosis.

How much MCT should I take a day to lose weight?
How much MCT should I take a day to lose weight?

The range to aim for is 1-3 doses of MCT oil per day. Since each dose should be no more than one tablespoon, this means you should take no more...

Read More »
How do you know you have your loved ones ashes?
How do you know you have your loved ones ashes?

Your loved ones' ashes are delivered to you, and you can place them in a burial plot, an urn garden, a niche in a columbarium, or special burial...

Read More »

Ketosis and ketoacidosis both involve the production of ketones in the body. However, while ketosis is generally safe, ketoacidosis can be life-threatening. Nutritional ketosis occurs when the body starts burning fat instead of glucose. Inducing ketosis is the aim of a ketogenic diet, or “keto” diet, which is a high-fat, very-low-carb diet that can help people lose weight. Ketoacidosis occurs when the body produces dangerously high levels of ketones, and it is often a complication of type 1 diabetes. In this article, we discuss the differences between ketosis and ketoacidosis, including their symptoms. We also explain when to see a doctor and how to treat and prevent ketoacidosis. Ketosis vs. ketoacidosis Share on Pinterest A doctor may recommend blood or urine tests to determine if someone is experiencing ketosis or ketoacidosis. Nutritional ketosis occurs when the body uses fat instead of glucose as fuel. The liver breaks down this fat into chemicals called ketones and releases them into the bloodstream. The body is then able to use the ketones as an energy source. The ketogenic diet aims to induce nutritional ketosis. People do this by eating foods that are high in fat but very low in carbohydrates. Adopting this diet has become a popular way to burn fat and lose weight. Doctors originally developed the ketogenic diet to treat children with epilepsy. The “classic” ketogenic diet involves eating 3–4 grams (g) of fat for every 1 g of carbohydrate and protein. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, studies show that more than 50 percent of children who try the diet have half the number of seizures or fewer, while 10–15 percent become seizure-free. Doctors do not know why the ketogenic diet reduces some symptoms of epilepsy. Research suggests that this diet may also help with some other neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. In contrast, ketoacidosis occurs when the body thinks that it is starving and starts breaking down fats and proteins too quickly. It is a potential complication of type 1 diabetes. If a person does not have enough insulin, the body cannot move glucose from the blood into cells, where it is necessary for energy. As a result, dangerous levels of both glucose and ketones can accumulate in the blood. Doctors refer to this condition as diabetic ketoacidosis. Doctors can use blood and urine tests to determine whether a person is in ketosis or ketoacidosis. During nutritional ketosis, it is normal to have blood ketone levels of 0.5–3.0 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) . According to the American Diabetes Association, a person should check their ketone levels if their blood glucose levels are higher than 240 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). People with diabetes whose blood ketone levels are high have a more significant risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. Symptoms of ketoacidosis Diabetic ketoacidosis is a potential complication of type 1 diabetes, and it can occur if a person does not administer enough insulin at the right times. Not eating enough food can also sometimes trigger diabetic ketoacidosis. The symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis include: high blood glucose levels

Does being gassy mean your losing weight?
Does being gassy mean your losing weight?

So can you fart yourself toward weight loss? "Unfortunately, not. Humans on average pass gas approximately 14 times per day, with no measurable...

Read More »
What foods shrink lower belly fat?
What foods shrink lower belly fat?

Here is a list of healthy foods that can help you fight belly fat: #1. Bananas. “Slice it and add it to your morning cereal to reduce bloating and...

Read More »

rising levels of ketones in the urine

thirst and frequent urination

exhaustion

dry or flushed skin As ketoacidosis progresses, symptoms can include: nausea and vomiting

stomach pain

trouble breathing

a fruity odor in the breath

confusion and difficulty paying attention

loss of consciousness

Symptoms of ketosis Share on Pinterest Symptoms of ketosis may include fatigue, feeling cold, and general weakness. For most people, ketosis is a short-lived metabolic state that happens when the body temporarily switches from burning glucose to burning fat. During this time, the level of ketones in the blood rises. People on ketogenic diets aim to spend more extended periods in ketosis. Some people also enter a state of ketosis through fasting. Ketosis can lead to bad breath and weight loss. It may also cause headaches, thirst, and stomach complaints in some people. Although inducing ketosis is generally safe, it can lead to nutritional imbalances in some people or result in them not getting enough calories. Malnutrition can cause: fatigue

weakness

poor concentration or memory problems

changes in mood

anemia

feeling cold

getting ill more frequently

When to see a doctor A doctor can use blood or urine tests to determine whether a person is in ketosis or ketoacidosis. These tests measure the levels of ketones, glucose, and acidity in the body. Nutritional ketosis is not a medical condition and does not require a diagnosis. However, ketoacidosis is a life-threatening condition, and anyone with symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. People with signs of malnutrition should also see a doctor. Doctors often provide urine test strips to people with type 1 diabetes to allow them to check their ketone levels. Treatment of ketoacidosis Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency that can progress quickly, but it is also highly treatable. Doctors usually treat people with diabetic ketoacidosis in a hospital or emergency room. Treatment typically involves insulin therapy together with fluid and electrolyte replacement. Most people with diabetic ketoacidosis will need to stay at the hospital for monitoring. As blood ketone levels return to normal, the doctor may recommend additional testing to determine whether a person has other risk factors for ketoacidosis.

How many hours should you fast on keto?
How many hours should you fast on keto?

16 hours It's common for people to pair the keto diet with intermittent fasting, usually 16:8, which means someone only eats during an 8-hour...

Read More »
Will a cucumber break ketosis?
Will a cucumber break ketosis?

It contains many essential nutrients, including vitamin K. Cucumber is also suitable for the keto diet, as its carb content is just 3.63 g per 100...

Read More »

testing the urine for ketones if blood glucose levels are above 240 mg/dl avoiding exercise if ketones are present in the urine and blood glucose levels are high

taking insulin according to the doctor’s treatment plan

eating a healthful and balanced diet

avoiding skipping meals

Does oatmeal help you lose weight?
Does oatmeal help you lose weight?

Yes, eating oatmeal every day can help you lose weight, promote heart health, and improve your cholesterol and blood sugar levels. However, eating...

Read More »
Can you drink coffee on Speed Keto?
Can you drink coffee on Speed Keto?

Coffee Enhances Ketosis Fasting alone is great for keto, but drinking coffee during a fast can add an even bigger boost to your keto diet. Recent...

Read More »
How long does it take for metabolism to adjust?
How long does it take for metabolism to adjust?

How Long Does it Take for Metabolic Adaptation to Happen? While the answer to how long it takes for metabolic adaptation to occur can vary,...

Read More »
Is it better to eat mashed potatoes or rice?
Is it better to eat mashed potatoes or rice?

Overall, potatoes contain more vitamins and nutrients than rice, but when you add toppings such as butter, sour cream, gravy, bacon bits and salt,...

Read More »